Bioterrorism and Emergency Preparedness

 Preparing for the unexpected has always been a routine matter for society's existing, specialized network of disaster management resources, such as the American Red Cross working alongside our fire, police and public works personnel -- all of whom are also assisted by state and federal emergency management entities. Unlike more traditional catastrophes, however, responding to a bioterrorist attack (BT) or something as widespread as a pandemic flu, requires the application of specific public health skills: epidemiology, communicable disease control, public risk communication, quarantine measures, mass care, and other community shielding activities.  Because of the potential for the rapid spread of disease, the town's Department of Health & Social Services (along with its community, municipal, and business partners) needs to be prepared to organize and lead a rapid response to protect the health of the community.

Over the last few years, the Department of Health & Social Services has been planning and preparing for this new leadership role. Such potential disasters as a smallpox outbreak, exposure to anthrax, or a pandemic of novel influenza virus have been the focus of our efforts. As a result, we have made considerable progress in recruiting volunteers, detailing requirements for a public health response, training personnel, preparing risk communications messages, learning to operate communications equipment, and practicing in the form of drills and exercises.  In the end, the result will be a stronger, well-prepared community, as well as a stronger sense of community.